יְבַל

to bring

Definition

The Hebrew verb יְבַל (yᵉbal) means 'to bring' or 'to carry.' In its three biblical occurrences, it specifically denotes the act of conveying valuable items, particularly sacred vessels or treasures, from one place to another. In Ezra 5:14, it refers to King Cyrus commanding the return of the gold and silver temple vessels taken by Nebuchadnezzar from Jerusalem. Similarly, in Ezra 6:5, the decree is to 'bring back' these same vessels to the temple in Jerusalem. In Ezra 7:15, the context shifts slightly to the bringing of silver and gold, which the king and his counselors have freely offered to the God of Israel, for purchasing sacrifices.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Ezra, specifically in the context of official Persian decrees and administrative documents. All three instances (Ezra 5:14, 6:5, 7:15) involve the transportation of precious goods—temple vessels or monetary offerings—under royal authority. The usage pattern highlights a formal, administrative act of restoration and provision for the worship of God in the rebuilt Jerusalem temple.

Etymology

יְבַל (yᵉbal) is an Aramaic verb that corresponds directly to the Hebrew verb יָבַל (yāḇal, H2986), which also means 'to bring, carry, conduct.' Both share a common Semitic root (*wbl) conveying the idea of bearing or leading. In the biblical text, יְבַל appears in the Aramaic sections, reflecting the imperial administrative language of the Persian period, while its Hebrew counterpart is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.

Semantic Range

This word is significant in the theology of restoration and God's faithfulness. Its use in Ezra underscores God's sovereignty in moving the hearts of pagan kings (Cyrus, Darius, Artaxerxes) to restore the worship instruments and resources of His people. The specific act of 'bringing back' the temple vessels fulfills Jeremiah's prophecy (Jeremiah 27:22) and symbolizes the renewal of God's covenant and presence with Israel after the exile. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Ezra by highlighting God's providential control over empires to accomplish His redemptive purposes.

In its original setting, the verb appears in official Aramaic documents, the lingua franca of the Persian Empire. The act of 'bringing' described is not a casual transfer but a formal, state-sanctioned repatriation of sacred items. This reflects the Persian imperial policy of supporting local cults and temples to maintain stability in conquered territories. The items being brought—precious metals and temple vessels—held immense religious and national significance for the Jewish community, representing their identity and the tangible restoration of their worship.

יָבַל (yāḇal, H2986) — The direct Hebrew equivalent, used in a wider range of contexts. נָשָׂא (nāśā', H5375) — Often means 'to lift, carry, bear,' with a broader semantic range including forgiveness. הֵבִיא (hēḇî', H935) — The common Hebrew verb 'to bring,' used for bringing people, objects, or abstract things.

Word Details

Scripture References